This class provides a supportive and inspiring environment to develop your skills while painting alongside fellow watercolorists. Students will work from their own reference photos, the instructor’s images, and weekly still-life setups, exploring a variety of subjects and approaches. The class focuses on expanding watercolor techniques, including triad painting, color harmony, and gaining a deeper understanding of how different pigments behave on paper. Individual instruction and constructive critiques are an important part of each class.
Minimum 6, Maximum 10 students
Skill level: Intermediate
Ages: 18 and up
Materials: Material list available upon registration.
Members $90 | Non-members $115
Wednesday (1 – 3:30pm)
Discover the beauty of watercolor in this fun, beginner-friendly class! Students will learn the fundamentals of watercolor painting, including understanding tones, setting up a color palette, and seeing the natural world through an artist’s eye. Step-by-step instruction will help build confidence while exploring basic techniques and color mixing. Best of all, each participant will complete and take home a finished watercolor painting at the end of the first class.
Minimum 4, Maximum 10 students
Skill level: Beginners
Ages: 18 and up
Materials: Material list available upon registration
Members $90 | Non-members $115
Thursday (1:30 – 4:00pm)
Join a fun and creative six-week pastel drawing designed for absolute beginners while warmly welcoming artists of all skill levels. You will learn the basics of shape, color, and value by drawing still life displays in class, with the option to bring your own reference photos (a loved pet, landscape, flowers, etc…). All supplies are included: paper, pastels, and blending stumps.
Minimum 5, Maximum 12 students
Skill Level: Beginning
Ages: 18 and up
Materials: All materials supplied
Members $150 | Non-members $175
Tuesday (12:30 – 2:30pm)
October 6 – November 10 | Register
Strengthen your painting skills by learning how to create more dynamic and visually engaging compositions through the effective use of value and color intensity. This class explores how thoughtful shape placement can improve balance, movement, and focal points. Through demonstrations students will develop a deeper understanding of composition and gain practical techniques for building stronger, more successful works of art.
Minimum 7, Maximum 12 students
Skill Level: Some experience needed
Ages: 18 and up
Materials: Material list available upon registration
Members $205 | Non-members $230
Saturday and Sunday (10am – 4pm)
October 3 & 4 | Register
The wonderful medium of pastel is perfect for creating paintings of the gorgeous local scenes of the Eastern Shore. Katie will instruct the class on a range of techniques in this informative and fun workshop. Value, composition, drawing skills and color theory will be discussed and demonstrated, especially regarding skies and water. Please bring your own photographs (or images on notebook) to work from (no phone or professional images please).
Minimum 8, Maximum 14 students
Skill level: Open to all skill levels
Ages: 14 and up
Materials: Material list available upon registration
Members $195 | Non-members $220
Friday and Saturday (10am – 4pm)
November 6 & 7 | Register
Discover the fundamentals of observational drawing. Through guided, step-by-step exercises, students will develop essential drawing skills while working in pencil and charcoal. The class focuses on creating realistic drawings by exploring contour line techniques, recognizing basic forms and shapes, understanding proportion and scale, and building strong spatial relationships between objects. This workshop will provide the skills needed to create successful, realistic drawings in a supportive learning environment. Minimum 3, Maximum 8 students
Skill level: Open to all skill levels
Ages: 18 and up
Materials: Material list available upon registration
Members $180 | Non-members $205
Thursday (5:30 – 8pm)
October 1 – November 5 | Register
This class combines the joy of drawing from observation with the fun of discovering new corners of our vibrant city, teaching students to capture lively surroundings, find inspiration in urban or natural landscapes, and build flexible sketching habits on the move. Connect with fellow art enthusiasts, sharpen your drawing skills, and experience different parts of Dorchester. First class will meet at DCA to discuss off site locations. Minimum 5, Maximum 10 students
Skill level: Open to all skill levels
Ages: 16 and up
Materials: All materials are supplied but you may bring your own if you have them.
Members $155 | Non-members $180
Saturday (10am – Noon)
Oct. 3, 10, 24, 31 and Nov. 7 & 14 (no class on October 17) | Register
This class provides a hands-on introduction to the art of Tiffany-style-stained glass using the copper foil method. Beginning and intermediate students will create a beautiful 12” x 12” stained glass panel while learning each step of the process. Instruction includes pattern preparation and troubleshooting, selecting colors that work harmoniously, glass cutting, grinding, copper foiling, soldering, and final assembly. You’ll also become familiar with the proper use of the tools and equipment needed to complete your project. Please note: For safety, closed-toe shoes are required.
Minimum 5, Maximum 7 students
Skill level: Beginning & Intermediate
Ages: 18 and up
Materials: All tools supplied. Material fee of $100 is due at the beginning of class
Members $175 | Non-members $200
Tuesday (4 – 6pm or 6 – 8pm)
September’s class will carve a Hooded Merganser using hand tools. A finished carving and a Wildfowl project book will be available for reference. Ron will demonstrate each step using a Merganser that he carves at home and brings to class. The project will be finished with Traditions acrylic paints. Sanding and dust will be kept to a minimum. Most importantly, the goal is to have fun!
Minimum 6, Maximum 11 students
Skill level: Open to all levels
Ages: 18 and up
Materials: A material list is available upon registration. Material fee of $90, payable to instructor at 1st class
Members $175 | Non-members $200
Friday (1 – 4pm)
Sept. 18 – Dec. 4 (No classes on Nov. 6th and 27th) | Register
This workshop empowers community members to document local climate change effects through photography and dialogue. Participants will learn basic photography and visual storytelling to capture environmental change. The workshop, which includes classroom instruction, field photography, and reflection sessions, requires no prior photography experience and aims to strengthen community engagement and environmental awareness.
Skill Level: Open to all skill levels, no experience necessary
Ages: 16 and up
Materials: Participants need to bring their own camera or smartphone;
a materials list (if needed) will be provided upon registration
Mininum 6, Maximum 12 students
Members $175 | Non-members $200
Saturday (10am – 4pm)
Thursday (6pm – 8pm)
September 26 & October 15| Register
This workshop empowers community members to document local climate change effects through photography and dialogue. Participants will learn basic photography and visual storytelling to capture environmental change. The workshop, which includes classroom instruction, field photography, and reflection sessions, requires no prior photography experience and aims to strengthen community engagement and environmental awareness.
Minimum 6, Maximum 12 students
Skill level: All levels, no experience
Ages: 16 and up
Materials: Participants need to bring their own camera or smartphone; a materials list (if needed) will be provided upon registration
Members $165 | Non-members $190
Saturday (10am – 4pm)
Thursday (6 – 8pm)
Sept. 26 & Oct. 15 | Register
Discover the fun of relief printmaking in this relaxed, beginner-friendly workshop! Participants will learn the basics of carving and printing using a simple rubber eraser and linocut tools. Create your own unique design and make a small edition of hand-printed work to take home and share. No experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity and creativity. This low-stress workshop is perfect for anyone who wants to try something new, unwind, and enjoy the satisfying process of making prints by hand. Minimum 5, Maximum 10 students
Skill level: All levels, no experience
Ages: 16 and up
Materials: All materials supplied to make prints (frame not included)
Members $35 | Non-members $45
Friday (6 – 8pm) or Saturday (11am – 1pm)
Join us for an afternoon of creativity and comfort at our Chunky Knit Blanket Workshop. Craft your very own luxurious and cozy chunky knit blanket. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or a beginner, this workshop promises a warm and unforgettable crafting experience.
Minimum 6, Maximum 15 students
Skill level: All levels, no experience
Ages: 12 and up
Materials: Participants need to bring Bernat Blanket Big yarn – 5 balls
Members $65 | Non-members $90
Saturday (10am – 1:30pm)
In this landscape needle felting class, participants will “paint with wool” by layering colorful wool onto a fabric or felt base using specialized barbed needles. You will learn how to build depth, blend colors, and add fine details to create a 2D felting beach scene with 5×7 frame.
Minimum 6, Maximum 15 students
Skill level: All levels, no experience
Ages: 12 and up
Materials: All materials supplied including frame
Members $45 | Non-members $55
Thursday (6 – 8pm)
Oct. 22 | Register
Needle Felting is an art of sculpting wool using special needles! It’s fun and relaxing as well. In this workshop participants will make a 7-inch-tall angel. Bring a friend and enjoy this holiday experience! No crafting experience necessary. Light refreshment included. Minimum 6,
Maximum 15 students
Skill level: All levels, no experience
Ages: 12 and up
Materials: All materials supplied to make one angel.
Members $50 | Non-members $60
Thursday (6 – 8:30pm)
Dec. 3 | Register
Enjoy creating this whimsical fabric Christmas tree for your holiday table. The process is easy and relaxing and the result will be sure to make you smile. Supplies included. Just bring your holiday spirit!
Minimum: 5, Maximum 12 students
Skill level: All levels, no experience
Ages: 14 and up
Materials: $15 per person to be paid directly to the instructor at the beginning of the class to cover all supplies
Members $35 | Non-members $45
Thursday (3 – 4:30pm OR 5:30 – 7pm)
Design a collection of luxurious, handmade greeting cards that your recipients will frame and cherish forever. In this premium hands-on workshop for artists of ALL skill levels, you will learn to use ink to illustrate festive images and design beautiful work with gouache (similar to watercolor), flat-back rhinestones, and fine glitter. You will receive a portfolio of cards and envelopes to create your finished holiday art. All supplies are INCLUDED – gouache, brushes, towels, rhinestones, fine glitter, pencils, sharpeners, fine tip ink pens, heavy duty watercolor paper with envelopes.
Skill level: All levels, no experience
Ages: 14 and up
Materials: All materials supplied
Members $90 | Non-members $100
Tuesday (5:30 – 7:30pm)
October 27 | Register
WEDNESDAY NIGHT FUN!! Bring a friend and create your own textured slab clay Christmas tree. You’ll learn simple hand-building techniques to shape, texture, and personalize your piece—no experience needed. …Not into trees? You can make clay tags, ornaments, or trinket dishes for gifts, as well. Enjoy a relaxed, creative atmosphere. Plan to return at a later date to glaze your piece. Minimum 5, Maximum 10 students
Skill level: All levels welcome
Ages: 16 and up
Materials: All materials supplied
Members $40 | Non-members $50
Wednesday (6 – 8:30pm)
September 30 | Register
In this class you will learn to create functional pottery using various techniques with kiln fired clay! During the 8-week session you will be guided through projects that interest you as we explore slab, pinch pot, and coil techniques as well as different surface treatments. Each class will involve a brief demonstration, hands-on practice, and time for individual guidance. Bring your creativity and enthusiasm!
Minimum 5, Maximum 8 students
*Enrollment in this course enables students to use the ceramics studio during open studio hours.
Skill level: All levels, no experience
Ages: 16 and up
Materials: All materials supplied including firing
Members $280 | Non-members $305
Wednesday (6 – 8:00pm)
October 7 – November 25 | Register
Discover the joy of shaping clay with your hands in this class. With step-by-step instruction and access to clay, tools, and glazes, you’ll learn the fundamentals of handbuilding while having plenty of time to experiment and develop your own creative ideas. Handbuilding techniques allow you to create a wide variety of forms, from bowls, trays, and vases to sculptural pieces and one-of-a-kind works of art. No prior experience is necessary, just bring your imagination and a willingness to get your hands dirty!
Minimum 3, Maximum 6 students
*Enrollment in this course enables students to use the ceramics studio during open studio hours.
Skill level: All levels, no experience
Ages: 16 and up
Materials: All materials supplied including firing
Members $280 | Non-members $305
Tuesday (11am – 1:00pm)
September 22 – November 10 | Register
This 8-week introductory wheel-throwing course is perfect for beginners who want to learn the fundamentals of creating pottery on the wheel. You’ll discover the process of transforming a simple lump of clay into your own unique ceramic pieces in a fun, relaxed, and supportive environment. No previous experience is required—just bring your enthusiasm and be ready to get your hands dirty! The course includes all firing and glazing, so you’ll leave with beautifully finished ceramic artwork to enjoy and take home. Minimum 3, Maximum 6 students
*Enrollment in this course enables students to use the ceramics studio during open studio hours.
Skill level: All levels, no experience
Ages: 18 and up
Materials: All materials supplied including firing
Members $280 | Non-members $305
Thursday (5:30 – 7:30pm)
September 24 – November 12 | Register
Coffee and Pots is a fun, relaxing workshop that combines creating a piece of pottery in a social setting. You will learn techniques to either hand build or create your piece on the potter’s wheel over a cup or coffee and light snack. This is a great class for individuals, or couples. Coffee and light pastries included.
Minimum 4, Maximum 10 students
Skill level: All levels, no experience
Ages: 14 and up
Materials: All materials supplied.
Members $40 | Non-members $50
Sunday (1 – 3:00pm)
Join us for these creative family art adventures. The monthly classes feature seasonal activities and crafts, suitable for all ages. Projects include painting and ceramics. Registration is suggested as some materials may be limited; however, you may also drop in.
All children must be accompanied in the classroom by an adult or guardian.
Skill level: All levels welcome
Ages: Parents and children (All children must be accompanied by an adult or guardian)
Materials: All materials supplied.
(You must arrive one half hour before the end of the class time)
FREE
Saturday (1 – 3:00pm)
Summer is not quite over so make plans to take advantage of this free family event before the school year begins. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Drop in, but you must arrive no later than 2:30pm. Registration is suggested.
Materials: All materials supplied.
One Day Workshop
FREE
Thursday (1 – 3pm)
August 13 | Register
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DCA is committed to providing students of all ages and levels with the opportunity to advance their skills in an informal, yet structured studio environment.
For the most up-to-date information on available classes, please visit our calendar.
Class discounts are offered to DCA members. Join today!
Interested in Teaching at DCA? Check out our New Class Proposal Form
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**Supply lists for classes may be obtained from the Dorchester Center for the Arts. We recommend that you order your supplies at least ten (10) days prior to the first class. Shop at Dick Blick or go to smile.amazon.com and enter Dorchester Center for the Arts as your supported charity. DCA will receive a donation from your purchase price at both of these sites! For more information call the Center at (410) 228-7782.
**Refund Policy: No class or workshop refunds are given unless DCA is notified at least one week prior to the start of the class or workshop. For all cancellations there is a non-refundable registration fee of $15. Please contact DCA at 228-7782 to request a refund.
